Yunus gives BIG assurance to US on February 12 election amid political unrest in Bangladesh, says ‘We want to make it remarkable’

Bangladesh has witnessed a new surge in violence since Sharif Osman Hadi was shot dead at close range on December 12. Tensions rose further after Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu youth, was lynched following allegations of blasphemy.

Amid continuing unrest after the death of radical youth leader Sharif Osman Hadi, Bangladesh’s interim Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus said the country will hold general elections on February 12. Yunus said Bangladesh is determined to bring back democratic rights that were taken away under an autocratic system. “The nation is eagerly waiting to use its right to vote,” he said, adding that the interim government will make sure the election is free, fair, and peaceful.

He made these comments during a phone call with Sergio Gor, the US Special Envoy for South and Central Asia. The call took place at around 7:30 pm Dhaka time and lasted about half an hour. Yunus later shared details of the conversation on X.

Election Will Be Held on Time, Chief Adviser Tells US Special Envoy

DHAKA, December 22: Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus on Monday reiterated his commitment to holding general elections on February 12.

“The nation is eagerly waiting to exercise their voting rights which…

— Chief Adviser of the Government of Bangladesh (@ChiefAdviserGoB) December 22, 2025

According to Yunus, the discussion focused on trade and tariff talks between Bangladesh and the United States, the upcoming national election, Bangladesh’s democratic transition, and the killing of Sharif Osman Hadi.

Sergio Gor, who also serves as the US ambassador to India, praised Muhammad Yunus for his leadership during recent trade discussions. He said the talks helped convince Washington to cut reciprocal tariffs on Bangladeshi goods to 20 percent.

During the conversation, the US envoy also brought up the large funeral held for Sharif Osman Hadi. His killing has triggered strong political reactions and protests on the streets, adding to tensions in the country.

Bangladesh has witnessed a new surge in violence since Sharif Osman Hadi was shot dead at close range on December 12. Tensions rose further a few days later when Dipu Chandra Das, a Hindu youth, was lynched following allegations of blasphemy. The two incidents have triggered widespread fear and anger across the country.

These developments have raised serious concerns about the interim government’s ability to maintain law and order. Questions are also being asked about whether the authorities can ensure basic security, especially for religious minorities, amid growing unrest in Bangladesh.